What is a Security DVR? DVR stands for Digital Video Recorder. A Security DVR is capable of taking the video from digital or analog cameras and recording it into a digital format on a hard drive. It can record high quality video, maintenance free, for weeks or even months. An ideal replacement for time lapse VCRs.

What is a video capture card? A video capture card or DVR card is a graphic card inside the Security DVR system which captures the signal from the cameras and stores the video on the hard drive.

How many hours of video can the Security DVR store? The length of archive depends on number of cameras, frames per second (FPS) and amount of available hard disk space. Our preconfigured systems usually provide several weeks of archive on motion detect mode.

How does motion detection work? Through the camera or software? Motion detection works through the software in the DVR system by recording video when pixels in the image change. Most Security DVRs offer a sensitivity scale so the user can set the sensitivity of the motion detection.

Can I view live and recorded video locally? Yes.

Can I view live and recorded video remotely? Yes, most of our Security DVR systems are Internet enabled. You can view live and recorded video from anywhere through the Internet.

What kind of broadband do I need? How much bandwidth? Basic DSL or cable will suffice in most cases.

Can several users view one site at once? Most Internet-enabled Security DVR systems allow multiple users to view the same site simultaneously. However, as more people look at the same cameras/DVR at the same time, the bandwidth will be shared between them.

Can I record audio? Yes, if the Security DVR system comes with an audio option you can record audio. Most analog cameras do not come with built in audio, so you will probably need a separate audio kit.

Can I listen to live and recorded audio remotely? Yes, some of our Security DVR systems have that option. With an optional audio module, you can listen to live and recorded audio from anywhere through the Internet.

How many cameras do I need? This will depend on the size and layout of the area you wish to survey. On average, we recommend one camera per 500 Sq. Ft.

Can I use my existing cameras? Yes, you can use your existing CCTV cameras. Simply plug them into the back of the Security DVR which replaces the VCR.

What camera lens size is the best for my application? Phoenix Surveillance carries a large selection of security camera lenses, but the lens you will need depends on where you plan to use it.

What is an Auto-Iris Lens? An auto iris lens provides consistent video signal in areas where light levels vary. This is very important when dealing with outdoor cameras.

What is Lux? Illumination is measured in units called Lux. Cameras are measured in lux, the lower the lux the better the camera can see in darkness. Infrared technology usually has 0lux since it uses IR to produce the artificial light for the cameras ccd.

Can I zoom in with a camera? Yes, but you need a special camera called a Pan-Tilt-Zoom or PTZ camera. Browse our selection of PTZ cameras and find the one that is right for you.

What type of Operating System (OS) does the Security DVR use? Most PC-based Security DVR Systems use Windows XP Professional, and Standalone Security DVRs are Linux based.

What kind of cable should I use? Siamese cable, which is an RG59 coaxial cable and a pair of 18 gauge wire for in the same jacket to make installation easy. CAT5e along with video baluns can also be acceptable for runs longer than 500 feet.

What happens if there is power outage? Most Security DVRs will come back on as soon as power is restored. However, we suggest an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) which provides a short period of backup power and also serves as a surge protection device.

Can I use my cash register with your POS interface? Our GeoVision and AverMedia systems work with most PC-based and electronic cash registers. Contact us with the make and model of your register, and we can tell you if your system is compatible.

Can the Security DVR report an alarm? Yes, some Security DVRs have that option.